Florida
Nature|Beaches, Lakes & Rivers

This Crystal-Clear Spring And Swimming Hole In Florida Must Be On Your Summer Bucket List

Madison Blue Springs State Park in Florida offers a crystal-clear first-magnitude spring perfect for summer swimming.

Published May 26, 2022

Written by 

Angie Slayton

While some states may have tiered waterfalls that connect to swimming holes below, here in Florida we have crystal-clear first magnitude springs. Sound pretty dreamy? We have the perfect one to add to your summer bucket list. This long-time Old Florida swimming spot is tucked away in Madison Blue Springs State Park and it is a delightful way to stay cool all summer. Just make sure you're well-versed on everything there is to know about this swimming hole in Florida before you adventure out.

If ever you’ve visited Madison Blue Springs State Park, it’ll be easy to see why this spring was voted the number one swimming hole in the country by USA Today.

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This family-friendly hotspot is a perfect place to spend a warm summer day, keeping cool in the first-magnitude spring.

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At 82-feet wide and 25-feet deep, a 150-foot spring merges with the river, creating the ultimate swimming hole spot.

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Spending the day here is easy, especially with the various picnic tables and pavilions where you can enjoy a packed lunch in between swims.

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It should be noted that accessibility may be limited for some - there are stairs that you must walk down in order to reach the swimming hole. Also, lifeguards are not on duty here, it is swimming at your own risk always.

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The surrounding area is lush with foliage, between the mixed hardwoods and pines towering to shade the sun, and the vibrant flora surrounding the spring.

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As one of the state's 33 first-magnitude springs, come enjoy taking a dip in the crystal-clear spring at Madison Blue Spring State Park.

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Google Maps

Click here to find out where this swimming hole in Florida is located on a map.

Have you ever been to this swimming hole in Florida before? Share with us your experience in the comments section! Or if you want more information about Madison Blue Springs State Park, such as hours of operation and entry fees, check out the Florida State Parks website.

Looking for more adventures to add to your summer list? Check out these 8 lazy rivers in Florida that are a perfect way to keep cool.

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Nature|Beaches, Lakes & Rivers

The Most Remote Lake In Florida Is Also The Most Peaceful

Lake George in Florida offers a peaceful and adventure-filled alternative to the state's popular coastal attractions.

Updated Aug 8, 2024

Written by 

Angie Slayton

While Florida might not be known for being a state where people take lakeside vacations, you’d be surprised at how many beautiful, remote lakes there actually are in the Sunshine State. Most visitors and vacationers indeed tend to stick to the coastline, waterparks, and theme parks to get a true taste of Florida. But, we have an incredible lake that might just change everyone’s minds. Take a tour of the delightfully remote Lake George, Florida. This is one of the most underrated lakes in Florida and it's worth a visit the next time you'd like to take a fun adventure.

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Lake George, Florida is the second-largest lake in the state, following the ever-impressive Lake Okeechobee.

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Spending a day on this remote lake will surely bring you a sense of peace, with six full miles across and 11 full miles around.

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The lake is fed from the northern flow of the St. Johns River, as well as other spots like Salt Creek, Silver Glen Springs, and Juniper Creek to name a few.

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The area that surrounds the lake is steeped in rich history, as it was part of the Timucua Indian settlement back in the 1500s. A few hundred years later, the territory was sold to a botanist, John Bartram, and named after King George.

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One of the best ways to view this lake is by boat or other non-motorized watercraft! You can easily spend an entire afternoon paddling the lake and enjoy the solitude of your surroundings.

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But also, hikers can hit the Lake George Trail in the Ocala National Forest, which gives a glimpse of the beauty of the lake from land.

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Just make sure to keep an eye out for the boardwalk trail, which will allow you to actually step out onto the water!

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TripAdvisor FlaHarlock

Spend the day fishing, hiking, and boating around this remote lake in Florida for an adventure-filled afternoon.

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Google Maps

Click here to find out where Lake George is in Florida.

Keep in mind there is always wildlife in Lake George, from snakes to alligators and everything in between. As always, please be careful when you visit. And it's always smart to let someone know where you'll be and when you expect to return. 

Need a place to stay while you're exploring? Check out these vacation rentals near Barberville, FL. Have you ever been to Lake George in Florida? Share your thoughts with us in the comments section! Meanwhile, when you're visiting Lake George and you happen to be close to Astor, take a detour southwest toward Alexander Springs for a truly underrated natural gem.

Looking for even more to explore? Check out this beautiful footage of the Florida Everglades:

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Nature|Beaches, Lakes & Rivers

The Most Remote Beach In Florida Is A Must-Visit This Summer

Upham Beach in St. Pete, Florida, is a hidden gem with calm waters, secret coves, and a secret garden, perfect for a peaceful family outing.

Updated Jul 25, 2024

Written by 

Lauren

As you probably know, the state of Florida has no shortage of gorgeous beaches. From the coastal waters of the Gulf of Mexico to the beautiful destinations along the Atlantic Ocean, the sunshine state is full of incredible natural wonders that have been attracting visitors for years. Some of the most well-known beaches certainly live up to their reputation- places such as Miami Beach, Destin, Clearwater, Palm Beach, and Key West are highly frequented for good reason. If you find yourself near Tampa, the city of St. Pete Beach (located a short drive West of St. Petersburg) is an excellent location that you've likely heard of. But are you familiar with Upham Beach Park? Located on the Northern end of St. Pete, this hidden beach in Florida is a wonderfully calm paradise that you won't want to miss.

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Located on Florida's West Coast, St. Pete is a gorgeous, white-sand beach that visitors of all ages will enjoy.

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If you're visiting the Tampa Bay area, a day at St. Pete will surely be a day well-spent. Try Upham Beach Florida!

Situated in the Northern Region of St. Pete, you'll find the gorgeous blue waters of Upham Beach Park.

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This family-friendly beach is home to two secret coves, shallow waters, and even a secret garden.

The secret garden of Upham Beach Park offers moments of tranquility and is only steps away from the beach.

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There is no street entrance to this secret garden, which means it can only be enjoyed by Upham Beach St Pete visitors. This spot is a great place for photos as well.

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Upham Beach Park is known for its calm, clear waters- a perfect spot for visitors with children.

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You may be able to spot dolphins, in addition to other wildlife in the area.

Another great thing about the hidden gem that is Upham Beach is the Paradise Grille.

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This beachfront restaurant offers a full food and beverage menu, live music, and amazing views of the ocean.

The Paradise Grille has two locations- the one on Upham Beach has an especially pretty outdoor location.

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Adults can order beverages such as beer or wine.

After a fun day at the beach, you can enjoy some of the most beautiful sunsets in the area.

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The peaceful environment is the perfect place to enjoy the evening sky.

With a secret garden, hidden coves, and calm, shallow waters, this spot is incredible. Avoid the crowds this summer with a trip to Upham Beach Park in St. Petersburg, FL. Need a new bathing suit? I love the options at REI.

If you’re looking for more beautiful Florida beaches, don’t worry; there are a ton of them!

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